Graham Rowntree May Seek Early Call for Jack Crowley Due to Billy Burns’ Injury
Graham Rowntree might need to request a dispensation from the IRFU to bring Ireland out-half Jack Crowley into action sooner than planned if Billy Burns’ shoulder injury prevents him from playing in Saturday’s away game against Zebre. Burns, the former Ulster No. 10, had to leave the field during the second half of the 35-33 victory over Connacht, and Munster is currently awaiting scan results.
Crowley, who played 34 matches for club and country last season and logged 2,202 minutes, was initially set to return in time for the third-round clash against the Ospreys in Cork. If Burns is sidelined, Munster would be left with Tony Butler and Academy out-half Dylan Hicks as options. Butler has started three out of ten games for Munster and successfully kicked the winning conversion after stepping in for Burns, while the promising Hicks is yet to make his first-team debut.
Rowntree expressed satisfaction with Butler’s winning kick but voiced concerns about his defensive performance in the No. 10 position, indicating a preference for a more experienced player as they aim for early-season momentum against Zebre, who recently challenged Cardiff.
“We’ll assess things on Monday; most players are expected back for round three, but it depends on our depth in certain areas,” Rowntree stated. He acknowledged Butler’s clutch kick but highlighted the need for improvement in defensive duties, especially considering the typical challenges fly-halves face in that channel.
Rowntree also praised Connacht for their performance and declined to use his team’s shorter pre-season as an excuse for not looking sharper than their opponents. He is focused on starting strong and building momentum as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
“We’re back to a week-to-week routine. We’ll review things on Monday, then shift our focus to the next game. We know Zebre will be eager in their first home match,” he added. “While we weren’t flawless, I was really impressed with Connacht’s physicality. They’ll have a good season ahead.”
